If I may change a thing on this, it would be the title: 100 questions before you EDIT your novel.

Don't ask yourself questions before writing, it's distracting and boring.

DeadClassicalPoet:

Thank you for your comment - that was the first thing that came to my mind. There are writers that edit while they type, they are rare and odd and beautiful creatures.

I have a problem with the list being aimed at an almost formulaic novel. It seems all geared to a hero journey with a clear antagonist. Also what did the main character do wrong? I mean it seems like you are constantly advised to make his life more miserable:

18. How can you make the threat, the danger, more excruciating, agonizing, humiliating? Who can do that? Why should they?

34. What does your hero – falsely – expect that won’t happen?

83. What is the most humiliating, painful extremity your hero will experience?

etc.

There isn't a question of what is a moment of bliss your hero will feel? who is going to actually be of assistance? etc. Kurt Vonnegut has the wonderful idea that writing must contain compassion to all your characters. I like that.

I am sorry, I am slightly drunk and I should probably delete this when sober, it's just it seemed that the entire list is against the protagonist.


posted 3210 days ago